Category: Performances

"What makes a really good comedy? Plenty of laughs, of course, but there needs to be something more – some substance, something that will stick with you after the witty wordplay and hilarious delivery have faded. Merry Birthday by J.S. Jacklin is a very good comedy indeed.

The initial premise provides a great comic start. Three 60-plus women – who insist they’re not friends, they’re just in a book club together – decide to do something nice for another not-a friend-but-a-club-member by throwing her a birthday party. In her apartment. Without her knowing they have a key.

The script is brilliant, and the performances by Robin Clipsham, Carrie Schiffler, and Jodie Auckland turn that funny premise into something hilarious. Their delivery and timing are impeccable, and there are some lovely moments of physical comedy by all three actors. The professional hand of veteran director Jeff Braunstein has turned all of this writing and acting talent into a superbly entertaining evening of theatre.

And there’s also some real heart in this play, as the women explore questions of aging and sexuality, of feeling needed and of needing friends. No matter which side of 60 you’re on, this is a play that will have you roaring with laughter all evening, and thinking about your friendships the next morning.

…if there is justice in the arts it will be staged again.” Andrew Wagner-Chazalon, CEO Dockside Magazine and Theatre critic.

“I went to a Dot The T theatre production in Muskoka titled Merry Birthday that was written by local, sixty-plus playwright Jan Jacklin . Yes, my sister Robin Clipsham stars in it alongside Jodie Auckland and Carrie Schiffler. And while it’s wonderfully acted and truly, uproariously funny, it’s the message that’s inspiring. Three lonely, struggling, middle-aged women get up to all kinds of dating-app nonsense until they realize that, in Jacklin’s words: “what women and men really crave in the autumn of their lives is friendships that will carry them through their remaining days.”

Lori Knowles, author of Muskoka’s #1 Best Seller, “Summers With Miss Elizabeth

A selection of responses from audiences:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I had the opportunity to watch a performance of this brilliantly written play. It tells the story of Violet Macdonald’s life in Great Britain from childhood to adulthood, and the play spans from World War 1 to post World War 2. There was a mix of heartache, tragedy, hopefulness, and lots of humor, as we were taken back in time to life during that era. There was no backdrop or props necessary for the performance, as I could picture exactly how things were at that time from listening to the actors/actresses. I would highly recommend reading this play, and even better if you can watch it being acted out. You will not be disappointed-the writer will have you in stitches” ANGELA UPTON.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I have read BLOOMING VIOLET twice in preliminary drafts and have just now finished the published hard cover book for the second time. Each read took me back to the cobbles of Thornaby-on-Tees, evoking precious memories of my nana, granddad, uncles and aunties – vivid and life-like characters jumping from the pages. I could picture in my mind so clearly the tender love stories of Alice & Robert, Alice & Eddy and Violet & Ken – unfolding with every page turn. I laughed out loud at Lettie’s antics – Jan captured my godmother’s character so very well. I am grateful for this opportunity to recommend Jan and Steven’s play to your readers. I have been very proud of all my sister’s artistic endeavours; BLOOMING VIOLET is one of Jan’s best – a celebration of our mum – well done Jan! …. and thank you for this wonderful gift. With all my love, ‘Rose Maureen’.” RITA DEAN

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Today I went to see this with two friends (Dot the T Productions) – What a fantastic play Jan!! My friends and I totally enjoyed seeing yourself, Steve, Jodie and Andy perform this. Beautifully written by yourself, informative, funny and sad moments. A very special intimate rewarding afternoon, knowing as well how very personal this story is. I would certainly encourage anyone who has not seen it, to do so. It won’t disappoint. Well done, congratulations and thank you all again!” KIM GERHART

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My mother was born in Yorkshire just four years after this play begins, so I was particularly interested in reading the script. Throughout history, stories about ordinary working class women are limited – stories of upper class families are more likely to make it to the stage or screen – Downton Abbey for example.
Violet passes through all the usual stages of life, but with an optimism and bravery typical of a woman born in Yorkshire. The action spans both world wars, and touches on several issues specific to the times, such as dreams put on hold, lovers separated for years, class differences, and women taking on much of the work typically done by men.
Violet could easily be my mother, who worked in a laundry and served in the army in the auto pool and stores while she and my father were separated by war for five years. The typical Yorkshire expressions that are sprinkled through the script, along with the song lyrics, and even the stories about tooth decay/false teeth and no middle names gave the piece a familiar feeling, as if the characters lived just down the lane from me and might come through my front door at any moment.
I’d love to see this play on the stage.” MARLENE BUMGARNER

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The script was excellent”

“Another really great performance”

“Facial expressions priceless”

“Powerful and poignant”

“So magical”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I have had the privilege of acting in this play based on a true story. Excellently written, it certainly captures perfectly the ups and downs of working class life over two World Wars, Depression and new beginnings. I was born in Yorkshire and can relate to many of the things in the story. True life is often better than fiction and Blooming Violet is testament to that.
A cracking good read and highly recommended!”
ANDY BARTLE

“Believable characters.”

“The Taboo scene was hysterical.”

“Could definitely connect.”

“Love the Diane  character.”

“A good balance of serious and humour.”